ARMC is pleased to announce that the latest in digital mammography technology is now available. With the installation of Fuji’s Computed Radiography for Mammography (FCRm) system, ARMC is now one of the few breast imaging facilities in the area to offer this digital mammography capability.

“Screening mammography is still recognized as the most effective tool available for the early detection of breast cancer,” said Mike Hedges, Director of Diagnostic Imaging. “And according to a recent landmark study, digital mammography offers significant benefits to certain groups of women. We’re proud to provide our community with the most advanced screening technology available to identify cancers early when they are most treatable.”

Digital mammography, a mammogram that uses new detection technologies and computers instead of film, was found in a landmark clinical study of more than 42,000 women to be better than film-screen mammography in detecting breast cancer in three groups: women under 50, pre- and peri-menopausal women, and women with dense breasts. Digital mammograms are 15 percent more accurate among women under age 50 or not yet in menopause, and 11 percent more accurate among women with dense breasts.

From the patient’s perspective, the procedure for a digital mammogram is the same as for a conventional film mammogram; however, since the images are available almost immediately and no film development time is necessary, the wait time for the patient is less. The radiologist sees images instantly, since digital images don’t need to be developed. With the click of a mouse, the radiologist can enlarge and enhance the digital image, adjust the contrast, or zoom in on specific regions of interest. Clearer images without delay—a major advancement for the radiologist and patient – and with this new clarity, it also reduces the need for callbacks.

Along with the digital system, ARMC also uses a GE PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System), which enables the digital mammograms to be electronically viewed, transmitted and stored. The system enables the interpreting physician to use digital tools to electronically enhance and magnify the images, and to adjust the contrast to better examine any suspicious areas. This reduces the need for the patient to be called back for additional exposures. The images can also readily be transferred to a CD if a patient needs to take them to another facility. ARMC also uses a CAD (Computer Aided Diagnosis) system. This system uses a computer to look at the images and points out any suspicious areas that it identifies. The Radiologist then re-examines those areas if needed.

"We want our patients to have every possible advantage in early detection. We’ve, therefore, made a major investment in this advanced technology. The benefits we are experiencing with Fuji’s digital mammography are not only allowing us to do our jobs more effectively and efficiently but, more importantly, they are enabling us to provide the top level of care for our breast imaging patients,” said Mike Hedges.

According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in women between the ages of 15 and 54, and the second cause of cancer death in women 55 to 74. Fortunately, 96 percent of women who find and treat breast cancer early will be cancer-free after five years. A breast exam by your provider should also be part of a periodic health exam every year for women 40 and above. Most importantly, ARMC encourages women to make breast cancer screening an annual commitment.

Clearly, early detection is everything. Call (715) 268-8000 for an appointment.